How to repair a slight tear in the driver's seat

[dkryan]

My 2001 I30 has a slight tear (less than 3/8 inch) in the left side bolster of the driver's seat. Actually, I think it's vinyl, as only the seating and seatback surfaces are "fine Corinthian leather."

Any constructive suggestions on how to repair that tear? Forget duct tape and/or super glue.

 

[JHZR2]

In cars with vinyl, Ive looked to find a vinyl i a matching color. Ue a good vinyl adhesive, and attach a piece inside of the tear first. Clost the tear as best as you can. Then apply a small piece of matching vinyl to the outer side, to prevent frther tears.

 

[BimmerMan]

http://www.leathermagic.com/index.html

 

[Captain_Klink]

get a nice sheepskin seat cover. ebay has good deals.

 

[dkryan]

Originally Posted By: Captain_Klink
get a nice sheepskin seat cover. ebay has good deals.


That won't fix the currently small tear, nor prevent it from getting any larger. And it likely will not make the sheep happy, either.

 

[Kestas]

I take the seat covers off, buy matching material, remove the torn panel, cut a new panel, and sew the new piece in. I don't like to take shortcuts.

 

[JHZR2]

I'd agree with that, but for something that has lots of surface features and relief, this may be impractical.

Great if it can be done though!

 

[Kestas]

Lucky for me I have a shop located a half-hour away that carries every imaginable type of interior material. I've been able to match up any car I have... from my 38 year old car to my 8 year old car. It's also amazing how inexpensive material can be. Interior work is nearly all labor.

After doing difficult wrench jobs, how difficult can needle and thread be?

 

[JHZR2]

how difficult is rough framing versus doing a good plaster job?